Celebrity Cruises
From sun-drenched shores to charming coastal towns, step back in time to the delights of the Southern Mediterranean like never before whilst onboard the luxurious Celebrity Ascent. From sipping cappuccinos on Italy’s characterful shores to the ancient mythological monuments of Greece’s historic coastline, and travelling down the Dalmatian Coast, discovering hidden gems of the timeless lands every step of the way. A unique experience, where quintessential luxury meets golden beaches, exquisite cuisine, and ancient treasures blending seamlessly with the pinnacle of innovative cruising.
Step back in time to the centre of the Antiquity and embark on Celebrity Ascent to unearth the hidden cultural treasures of this timeless corner of the world. A dreamlike destination, brimming with sun, sea, and sand – throughout indulging in little luxuries onboard a state-of-the-art ship and exclusive excursions encompassing both land and sea with something special for everyone to enjoy. Discover the timeless tranquillity of the Southern Mediterranean with a curated mix of culture, exploration, natural beauty, and luxury every moment of the way.
Immerse in Celebrity’s innovative design, promising imaginative and endless opportunities for entertainment and relaxation. Breathtaking views are complimented by outstanding design that takes your breath away. Feeling more like a destination itself, onboard Celebrity Ascent, some of the best destinations are already onboard.
Day 1 - 2
Arrive in Rome and transfer to the luxurious Anantara Palazzo Naiadi Hotel, where you’ll stay for the next two nights. Once the centre of the Ancient World, the Eternal City is an endlessly entertaining mix of haunting ruins, all-inspiring art, and bustling street life making Rome one of the world’s most romantic and charismatic cities. With an enormous wealth of culture and history to discover, when in Rome ‘Carpe Diem’ and explore the spectacles of the Colosseum, the Sistine Chapel, and Piazza Venezia. Take a moment to wander the mazes of cobbled streets, filled with artisan boutiques and family-run eateries to watch the world go by with an espresso in hand.
Day 3
Take the first step of the cruise onto the sunbaked cobbled streets of Messina, the gateway to the Ionian Sea. Nestled along Sicily’s northeastern point, on the slopes of the Peloritani mountains, Messina is drenched in history, lined with picture-perfect beaches, and home to gorgeous wineries – showcasing the very best of Sicilian culture. The fascinating displays of Byzantine, Arab, and Norman-era art are located throughout the city, and one of the most famous residents, the Messina Cathedral, was built around 900 years ago. Home to the astronomical clock, intricately and elaborately designed – head to Piazza Duomo at midday for the artistic masterpiece to come to life.
At Sea
Recharge and rejuvenate with a restorative day of sailing across the seas. Treat yourself to health, beauty, and restorative treatments in the revitalising spa or enjoy the onboard fitness options – offering a chance to truly focus on you. Watch the world go by, perhaps with a drink or two at the choice of bars, lounges, and social spaces. In the evening, dine in luxury and elegance at speciality restaurants.
Day 5
Steeped in the echoes of ancient glory, journey back in time through the gateway to Olympia, where the spirit of the Olympic Games was first ignited. Walk in the footsteps of the athletes from old, marvelling at the well-preserved grounds, imagining the grandeur of the ancient stadium. Take a moment to experience the true pleasures of the Ionian Sea with a visit to Kourotas Beach to spend a few hours relaxing under the warmth of the sun and swimming in the azure waters. As the sun begins to set, quaint tavernas are perfectly placed on the waterfront to allow the opportunity to savour traditional Greek flavours whilst watching the golden sun sets below the waves.
Day 6
From the writings of Gerald and Lawrence Durrell to the place where the shipwrecked Odysseus was soothed and sent on his way home, Corfu has been portrayed as an idyll for millennia. Emerald greens paired with aquamarines blues define the island, and its rugged coastline retains a wild beauty which has charmed visitors for centuries. The UNESCO World Heritage Site of Corfu’s Old Town reflects the city’s historic legacy, blending Venetian, French, and British influences into its impeccable architecture. The medieval citadel and Byzantine fortress successfully defended the Ottomans, the Venetian neoclassical quarter with its hues of rose and ochre reflect the remarkable colours of the island’s sunsets, and the immaculately green cricket ground as a reminder of British rule in the 19th century provides a whimsical memoir of home.
Day 7
A rugged Mediterranean gem, arising from the sea’s rich blue haze, Dubrovnik is renowned for its medieval fortifications, stunning sea views, and old-world charm. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Adriatic’, Dubrovnik’s medieval city walls, well-preserved old-town, Baroque buildings, and cultural landmarks attract a wide range of visitors, drawn to its architectural charm, terracotta rooftops, scenic beauty, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're heading to see its Game of Thrones filming locations, devour fresh seafood or take a trip to nearby islands, Dubrovnik is the gateway to ceaseless Mediterranean beauty, lively markets, and intense senses.
Day 8
Lined with palm trees and brimming with eclectic charm, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Split is the cultural and economic heart of the Dalmatian Coast. Enclosed with the walls of the Diocletian Palace, a dazzling bric-a-brac of marble has been added to over the millennia creating a labyrinthine layout, full of cobbled alleyways leading to hidden courtyards, quaint cafes, or colourful cocktail bars. Sit with a coffee and let the world go by whilst gazing upon imposing Roman ruins or the crystal-clear waters of secret coves and simply soak in thousands of years of history.
Day 9
Bursting at the seams with majestic mountains, breathtaking beaches, and vibrant local-life, Montenegro proves that good things do indeed come in small packages. Its gorgeous Adriatic coastline has secluded, rocky coves and great swathes of sandy beaches, beautifully preserved medieval towns and one of the most dramatic natural inlets anywhere on the Mediterranean. Set against six miles of coastline and backed by olive-clad foothills, soak up the sun and the diverse culture of Bar, from Castle of King Nicola to the stretch of little restaurants and cafes in the rambling cobbled streets alongside it.
At Sea
Whilst sailing down the Dalmatian Coast and across the Ionian Sea, spend the day enjoying the many amenities of your boutique hotel on the waves. Indulge in a treatment at the spa, keep active at the fitness centre, or unwind on the sun-soaked pool deck, or even take a swing on the card tables. Later, tantalise your tastebuds in one of the exquisite restaurants before taking a seat for sophisticated evening entertainment. Once returned to your luxury cabin, unwind and end the day with a truly enviable tan!
Day 11
A return to the incredibly beautiful Italian coast means an opportunity to explore more of the nexus of ancient civilisation, in the form of Naples. With Mount Vesuvius towering in the distance, Naples is home to an impressive wealth of art and architecture, from ancient Greek fortifications, a Roman amphitheatre, and a Norman castle testifying its long and rich history. As the Italian saying goes “Rome is the heart of Italy, but Naples is its soul”, the Neapolitans have definitely mastered the art of 'la dolce vita', being the birthplace of pizza and home to delectable pastries and gelato. Around every corner in the city’s historical centre is a maze of baroque churches, Renaissance piazzas, and charming cafes.
Day 12
Concluding this epic voyage with a return to Rome is the perfect way to end this journey back through time witnessing the wonders of the ancient world. As a treasure trove of art, historical landmarks, cultural heritage, and architecture another visit to Rome ensures no stone is left unturned before returning home to the UK.